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At least 27 killed in two shootings in South Africa

Two separate mass shootings in South Africa resulted in at least 27 fatalities, with incidents reported near Johannesburg and Cape Town.

27 September 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Archive photo: At least 27 killed in two shootings in South Africa — Archive photoPhoto: South African Tourism · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0

South African police have reported that two mass shootings occurred over the weekend, leading to the death of at least 27 individuals. The first incident took place at a bar in Wedela, southwest of Johannesburg, where eight gunmen armed with AK-47 rifles entered and opened fire on patrons, resulting in 17 deaths and 15 injuries, according to multiple sources.

The shooting in Wedela unfolded late on Saturday night. The assailants reportedly searched some of the victims for belongings, including cell phones, before fleeing the scene in two vehicles. Among the deceased were 13 males and four females, and police have launched a manhunt for the suspects involved, seeking public assistance in providing any relevant information.

A separate shooting incident occurred in Lwandle, near Cape Town, where 10 additional fatalities were confirmed. Details regarding this incident remain limited, but it has been reported concurrently with the Wedela case as part of a pattern of gun violence in the region.

The attacks are notable in the context of ongoing issues related to crime and violence in South Africa, where such mass shootings have become alarmingly frequent. Local authorities are grappling with the challenges posed by persistent gang rivalries and related violent crimes.

The incidents have raised concerns within communities and prompted calls for increased measures to address the violence. Law enforcement continues to investigate both shootings, aiming to ascertain possible connections between the two events and to apprehend those responsible.

These shootings follow a recent mass shooting in Durban, where 11 people were killed at a house party, further underscoring the urgency of addressing the violence that has plagued South African townships. The authorities remain on high alert as investigations continue, focusing on both public safety and the apprehension of suspects.

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